In July of 2012, aged 8, I had my very first seizure. The following years and additional seizures eventually led to a diagnosis: Benign Rolandic Epilepsy.
My history of epilepsy does not define me, but it has profoundly shaped my path.
Since my diagnosis, I have had the privilege to study the mechanisms that wire our brains as a neuroscience student at UVA. I have also worked directly with patients affected by a variety of epilepsy types at Boston Medical Center’s Pediatric Neurology Department.
As an EMT, I interact with patients in daily life, many of whom are living with epilepsy. I’ve seen firsthand how the lack of understanding, functional treatments, and research options affects their care. Having been fortunate enough to outgrow my seizures, I am committed to dedicating my time, and efforts to finding that same hope for others.